According to an article from News Americas, a recent study research from the National Institute of Health underscores the lifesaving potential of a combination of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation, reporting a remarkable survival rate of 70 per cent.
The article highlights that amid this promising research, Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB), a Caribbean Diaspora organization based in the United States, remains resolute in its mission to make this vital emergency response available to schools and sports associations in Jamaica.
Led by the dedicated Jamaican immigrant, Irwine Clare, Sr., OD, TJB is set to make yet another significant contribution to school safety and sports events.
The organization will present a total of 35 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to various educational institutions and sports associations as part of their “Defibrillators in Schools” initiative.
Unveiling the lifesaving initiative
The grand unveiling of this life-enhancing initiative is scheduled for Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium located on the UTECH (University of Technology) campus.
The presentation ceremony is slated to commence at 9 a.m., kicking off with in-person training sessions on AED usage and the critical importance of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
As an added safety measure, each recipient will also be equipped with a comprehensive Sports First Aid Kit.
Making strides in lifesaving initiatives
The roots of TJB’s “Defibrillator to Schools Program” can be traced back to 2014 when a tragic incident during a cross-country meet in Tobago claimed the life of a student from St. Jago High School.
This heart-wrenching event shed light on the dire need for easily accessible emergency resources, particularly during sporting events.
Since its inception, the program has made remarkable progress. TJB has generously donated over 100 AED units to schools and organizations and has provided crucial training to more than 400 staff and students.
The training sessions are conducted by certified nurses Delores McGregor, Sharon Thompson, and Winsome James, who are members of the Jamaican Nurses Association in the Northeast Diaspora and hold Basic Life Support (BLS) certifications.
Expanding the lifesaving reach
Beyond schools, several sporting associations, and tertiary institutions will benefit from this life-enhancing initiative. Notable beneficiaries include Netball Jamaica, Jamaica Volleyball, UTECH, GC Foster College of Sports and Recreation, Montego Bay Community College, and The Mico University College.
Acknowledging the lifesaving supporters
TJB extends heartfelt gratitude to its major sponsors, including the Second Round Foundation, represented by NBA Point Guard Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks), and Olympic Sprinter Adelina Bernard, who has represented Panama, Jamaica, and Venezuela. The Jamaica National (JN) Group has also played a pivotal role in supporting this laudable initiative.
Committed to athlete development and care
Established in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, TJB has consistently championed the development and care of athletes and coaches at Penn Relays through its Hospitality Initiative Program.
This program has opened doors to valuable scholarship opportunities for Caribbean athletes, made possible through the generous support of donors, sponsors, and supporters. TJB’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the safety and well-being of athletes is evident in this latest initiative, serving as a testament to their enduring commitment.
, a Caribbean Diaspora organization based in the United States, remains resolute in its mission){kind=link}